How to change your address on a Tennessee driver's license

You can change your address on a Tennessee driver's license in person at any Driver Services office, by mail, or online through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if you don't need a replacement card. If you change your address in person or by mail, you'll receive a new card with your updated information.

Tennessee does not require you to update your address within a specific number of days, but doing it promptly protects you. If you're stopped by police or pulled over, an out-of-date address can create confusion. More importantly, your license is a form of identification for banking, voting, and other transactions, so keeping it current matters for your own records.

Key Takeaways

  • You can update your address online for free without getting a new card, or in person or by mail if you want a replacement card with the new address printed on it.
  • The online method through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website is the fastest option and requires only your license number and personal information.
  • If you change your address in person at a Driver Services office, bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • By mail, you'll need to send your current license, a completed form, and proof of address to the address listed on the Tennessee Department of Safety website.
  • A replacement card ordered in person or by mail costs between $15 and $27 depending on the type of license you hold.

Changing your address online

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security allows you to update your address on their website without ordering a new card. Go to the department's online services portal, enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll then enter your new address and confirm the change.

This method is free and takes effect when ready in the state's system. Your physical card will still show your old address, but law enforcement and government agencies will see your current address in their records. If you prefer to have a card printed with your new address, you can order a replacement at the same time for a fee.

Changing your address in person at a Driver Services office

Visit any Tennessee Driver Services office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

You'll fill out a short form and pay the replacement card fee. The office will issue you a new license on the spot with your updated address. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number if this is your first time updating your address or if your name has changed.

Changing your address by mail

read the address change form from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. Fill it out completely, including your current license number, new address, and signature. Attach a copy of proof of address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail.

Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Include a check or money order for the replacement card fee if you want a new card printed. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. Your address will be updated in the state's system, but you won't receive a new physical card unless you pay the replacement fee.

What counts as proof of address

Tennessee accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and government correspondence all work. Some offices also accept mail from your insurance company, employer, or school.

If you've just moved and don't have a document in your name yet, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your residency and move-in date. Some offices will accept this in place of a utility bill while you wait for your first bill to arrive.

Fees and what you'll receive

Updating your address online costs nothing. If you order a replacement card in person or by mail, the fee depends on your license type. A standard driver's license replacement costs $15, while a REAL ID-compliant license costs $27. Commercial driver's licenses have different fees — check the Tennessee Department of Safety website for the exact amount.

When you order a replacement card, you'll receive it by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you applied in person, or two to three weeks if you mailed in your request. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives.

If your license is suspended or expired

You can still update your address online or in person even if your license is suspended or expired. However, if your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive, and a replacement card won't change that status. Address changes do not affect the suspension itself — you'll need to resolve the underlying issue (unpaid fines, failed tests, or other violations) separately through the Tennessee Department of Safety.

If your license is expired, updating your address does not renew it. You'll need to renew your license through the standard renewal process, which involves passing a vision test and paying the renewal fee. You can renew and update your address at the same time in person or online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card when I change my address?

No. You can update your address in the state system online for free without ordering a new card. Your physical card will show the old address, but government and law enforcement records will reflect your current address. If you want the new address printed on your card, you can order a replacement for a fee.

What if I don't have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

Ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and current address. Some Driver Services offices will accept this temporarily while you wait for a utility bill or other official document to arrive in your name.

How long does it take to get a replacement card with my new address?

If you explore in person, your card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you mail in your request, it takes two to three weeks. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended?

Yes, you can update your address online or in person. However, a suspension remains in effect regardless of your address change. You'll need to resolve the underlying issue separately with the Tennessee Department of Safety before you can legally drive again.

Is there a important date for changing my address on my license?

Tennessee does not set a legal important date, but updating your address promptly is wise. An out-of-date address can cause confusion during traffic stops and may affect your ability to receive important notices from the state or use your license as identification for banking and voting.